tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7818613348892752982018-02-07T22:32:43.418+00:00Dulwich and Herne Hill Safe Routes to SchoolFor safer, greener, healthier everyday journeys.
Lucynoreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-51770062292434901162017-10-15T15:59:00.002+01:002017-10-15T15:59:50.552+01:00Letter to Helen Hayes <i>We sent the below email to our MP Helen Hayes following the DfT's 28 September statistical release, '<a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B85nyBi4dQsUSDlXUHdMZHFRZnM" target="_blank">Reported Road Casualties in Great Britain: 2016 Annual Report</a>'.</i><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Dear Helen,</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Firstly, thank you for attending our meeting last month. We very much appreciated you joining us and for all your hard work in mediating between the many parties involved in current issues affecting local transport and travel.</span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Unfortunately, I must now turn to a much less happy matter.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><u></u><u></u></span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">I am writing to you in order to express the forum's grave concerns regarding the fact that pedestrian fatalities actually increased in 2016 and that 26% of these fatalities were children aged under 15.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><u></u><u></u></span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">We especially wish to highlight the cases of Esme Williams and Georgia Addy, two of the school children killed or seriously injured in road traffic collisions last year.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><u></u><u></u></span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Esme was killed by a van driver whilst scooting to pre-school. Georgia suffered life changing injuries after being struck by a van driver as she walked home from school. Both girls were on the pavement when they were hit yet neither driver received a custodial sentence.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><u></u><u></u></span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #14171a; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">As you are aware, the schools in the forum work hard to promote active travel to families in our community. We strongly believe active travel is vital to the health and wellbeing of our young people, but clearly this is absolutely dependent on our roads being safe for vulnerable users.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><u></u><u></u></span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa; color: #14171a; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><u></u><u></u></span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Following the&nbsp;coverage of the Williams trial, Daniel Hewett, a local parent, tweeted the Safe Routes account, writing '</span><span style="color: #14171a; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Trucks mounting the pavement typifies our daily walk to school along Bowen Drive SE21'. This echoes the concerns of other parents in our community; they feel that not only our local roads, but even our pavements are too dangerous for our children to use safely.</span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa; color: #14171a; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><u></u><u></u></span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">We ask you, Helen, to please call on Government to prioritise improving road safety and to make clear what their plans are to ensure walking is a safe choice for our children and young people.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><u></u><u></u></span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">We do not wish to see another increase in such awful statistics.&nbsp;</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><u></u><u></u></span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">We look forward to hearing your&nbsp;response to our letter&nbsp;and of any steps you take to support our call.&nbsp;</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><u></u><u></u></span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">With thanks</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><u></u><u></u></span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Amy Foster</span></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="gmail-m_1914058787161525581gmail_signature"><div dir="ltr"></div></div></div><b style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"><br /></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">Dulwich &amp; Herne Hill Safe Routes to School Group</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">c/o Alleyn's Junior School</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">Townley Road</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">LONDON SE22 8SU</span>Amy Fosterhttps://plus.google.com/118389954995580343968noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-66955145362802948002017-10-04T10:00:00.001+01:002017-10-04T10:02:52.980+01:00Mayor's Transport StrategyThe Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, published his draft transport strategy in June. You can read the strategy summary and full draft <a href="https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/policy/mayors-transport-strategy/?cid=mayors-transport-strategy" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br />The consultation closed on October 2nd and SRS submitted the following comments:<br /><br /><i>1) London faces a number of growing challenges to the sustainability of its transport system. To re-examine the way people move about the city in the context of these challenges, it is important that they have been correctly identified.&nbsp;</i><br /><br />We see the school run as having a huge impact on the morning and evening rush hours. We feel that at present parents don't have enough options available to them on how to get their children to school safely and on to work. Road traffic collisions remain the biggest cause of death for young people aged 11-18, with many of these deaths occurring during the evening rush hour, when they are returning from school. We believe safe walking and cycling routes to school should be a first step to tackling some of the issues around rush hour congestion as if parents feel they can safely cycle with their children to school and then onto work, or even that their children can complete the same journey independently, they may choose to do so over the car or public transport, easing the pressure on the network.<br /><i><br /></i><i>Steps to achieve this vision:</i><br /><br />The public health issues around childhood obesity and air quality are a major concern and focus for our group. We support all measures that seek to improve active travel options ( even if that is the walk to the bus stop or train station). Furthermore, we support accessibility at stations as travelling with multiple children is another barrier to parents choosing public transport over the car. Investment in public transport (including trams) improves the range of options available to parents and school children on how to complete their journeys.<br /><br /><i>Healthy Streets</i><br /><br />We would like to see the healthy streets agenda being rolled forward with a particular focus being placed on healthy school streets. This is as we feel the impacts of both inactivity and air pollution on children's health is at crisis point and needs to be addressed immediately.<br /><br /><i>&nbsp;The Mayor’s draft plans to reduce road danger and improve personal safety and security</i><br /><br />We very much support the 20's plenty campaign and would like to see TfL follow suit in reducing the speed limit on all of their roads too, as the authorities in New York have.&nbsp; We do not believe it to be fair that roads with faster speed limits (the arterials), given that nearly every road in the capital has some residential housing on it, where children may be living.&nbsp; The suggestion seems to be that only those who can afford to live on quieter streets can afford for their children to be safe when crossing the road, which to us is an injustice.<br /><br /><i>The Mayor’s draft plans to ensure that crime and the fear of crime remain low on London’s streets and transport system&nbsp;&nbsp;</i><br /><br />Research shows communities develop more readily on streets with less motor traffic . We believe blocking more roads to through traffic and reducing traffic speeds would allow children to play more safely in their neighbourhood streets, creating links between local residents and families. Strong community ties create safer communities.<br /><br /><i>&nbsp;The Mayor’s draft plans to prioritise space-efficient modes of transport to tackle congestion and improve the efficiency of streets</i><br /><br />Cycling and walking are the most efficient ways of using road space to transport people. However, children need segregated cycle tracks or traffic free routes if they are to travel by bike. We firmly support the creation of new protected cycle tracks, across the capital, so that all children are able to travel safely in the capital.<br /><br /><i>The Mayor’s proposed approach to road user charging&nbsp;</i><br /><br />At present, there are few disbenefits to driving, especially outside the congestion charging zone. It can be cheaper than public transport for peak time journeys. We support congestion charging, increased permit costs, limits on off-road parking and the removal of on street parking.<br /><br />Parking is one of the key aspects that makes walking or cycling dangerous with younger children. Drivers can pull out of driveways without anticipating small children in their path and parking limits the visibility and ease with which it is possible to cross the street, especially when one has a buggy. Driving needs to be made less attractive if other transport methods are to be seen as beneficial.<br /><i><br /></i><i>The Mayor’s draft plans to protect the natural and built environment, to ensure transport resilience to climate change, and to minimise transport-related noise and vibration</i><br /><br />We very much welcome the creation of parklets and new open green spaces. Our children need to be active and inviting places in which to play are central to encouraging this.<br /><br /><i>The Mayor’s draft plans to provide an attractive whole-journey experience that will encourage greater use of public transport, walking and cycling.&nbsp;</i><br /><br />Many parents have to drop children off or collect them at the start or end of a journey. Being able to combine modes makes it easier to complete these things efficiently, without having to use a car.<br /><br /><i>The Mayor’s draft plans to improve rail services by improving journey times and tackling crowding&nbsp;</i><br /><br />Reliability is a key issue for our network, where many services are served by Southern and frequently, and severely, affected by the industrial action. We would welcome efforts for the network to be brought under the Overground umbrella.<br /><i><br /></i><i>The Mayor’s proposed approach to responding to changing technology, including new transport services, such as connected and autonomous vehicles.&nbsp;</i><br /><i><br /></i>&nbsp;It does seem autonomous vehicles could offer a means of reducing car ownership. We would wish to point out that this does not indicate a reduction in traffic volumes and may do little to improve road safety for children and families.<br /><br /><i>Are there any other comments you would like to make on the draft Mayor’s Transport Strategy?</i><br /><br />The aims are commendable. However, we would like to see real improvements to walking and cycling being made now in outer London in the near future, with the creation of segregated cycle tracks and modal filtering being used more widely near schools. We are deeply concerned that the health and well-being of our young people isn't valued highly enough to put some of these ambitious policies into action immediately.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Amy Fosterhttps://plus.google.com/118389954995580343968noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-11949719267989803992017-09-26T15:17:00.002+01:002017-09-26T15:17:43.291+01:00Early Years Event at Herne Hill VelodromeOn Wednesday 21 June the iconic Herne Hill Velodrome hosted, on behalf of Dulwich &amp; Herne Hill Safe Routes to School, an Early Years Sustainable Travel Event with support from Southwark Council.<br /><br />The event aimed to promote and encourage road safety and sustainable travel to Early Years’ families (under 5s). Eight schools and nurseries from the local area: Bessemer Grange Primary School, DUCKS, Dulwich Prep London, Dulwich Village C of E Infants’ School, Dulwich Wood Primary School, Herne Hill School, JAPS and Nelly’s Nursery, took part and their pupils had the opportunity to have balance bike, bike skills and pedestrian training.<br /><br />There were lots of other fun activities taking place; families brought their bikes for a safety check by Dr Bike, drank smoothies blended by the ‘smoothie bike’, made badges and coloured in travel related arts and crafts, as well as enjoying a performer who walked around entertaining the children.<br /><br />Parents who owned cargo bikes and tag along bikes were invited to display them for other families to trial as well as being able to enjoy the newly opened cafe!<br /><br />This community event was organised by Dulwich &amp; Herne Hill Safe Routes to School to promote active travel and to enable children to get to and from school safely.<br /><br />We work to make our neighbourhood healthier, safer and more pleasant for everyone. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FkiJEWJE4rs/WcphN-V-6nI/AAAAAAAACus/4GP7iWPD0EUjzDHFCuVgqbeKHRNpIcNjwCLcBGAs/s1600/velodrome%2Bpic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FkiJEWJE4rs/WcphN-V-6nI/AAAAAAAACus/4GP7iWPD0EUjzDHFCuVgqbeKHRNpIcNjwCLcBGAs/s320/velodrome%2Bpic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Seth03adgbM/WcphUo_V-4I/AAAAAAAACuw/iKgYZl1gaH4u1H1ocrg6qbGD7nURwcqTwCLcBGAs/s1600/EY%2Bphoto%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Seth03adgbM/WcphUo_V-4I/AAAAAAAACuw/iKgYZl1gaH4u1H1ocrg6qbGD7nURwcqTwCLcBGAs/s320/EY%2Bphoto%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jhnHywEevjI/WcphU0cCgrI/AAAAAAAACu0/wpIPl6Q54IYMEGwV2b1cHOnbsHAA-cLEwCLcBGAs/s1600/EY%2Bphoto%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jhnHywEevjI/WcphU0cCgrI/AAAAAAAACu0/wpIPl6Q54IYMEGwV2b1cHOnbsHAA-cLEwCLcBGAs/s320/EY%2Bphoto%2B4.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-keV6YhN7WRg/WcphV8zJ6CI/AAAAAAAACu8/-eIKbS-4VpsqVipY4ury5Ue2hJtNNrImwCLcBGAs/s1600/EY%2Bphoto%2B6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-keV6YhN7WRg/WcphV8zJ6CI/AAAAAAAACu8/-eIKbS-4VpsqVipY4ury5Ue2hJtNNrImwCLcBGAs/s320/EY%2Bphoto%2B6.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />Amy Fosterhttps://plus.google.com/118389954995580343968noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-38543741342980189512017-09-10T16:39:00.002+01:002017-09-10T16:40:17.568+01:00SRS in the London Cyclist A version of this post first appeared in the Autumn 2017 edition of <i>London Cyclist</i>, the magazine of the <a href="https://lcc.org.uk/" target="_blank">London Cycling Campaign.</a><br /><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Women and Cycling: The impact of the School Run</span></div><b id="docs-internal-guid-6698cb1f-6c6d-c8d4-d280-5c5dc63f2505" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Currently, the biggest killer of children aged 10-18 in the UK is road traffic incidents</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Parental fears around road safety are not unfounded.</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If it isn’t safe for children to get to school independently, parents’ lives end up revolving around school pick-up and drop-off times, adding to stress levels in already busy lives. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Schools do need to do all they can to work with their communities to make their local areas safer for cycling. &nbsp;I’m extremely fortunate to work supporting schools in Southwark; we have a fantastic school travel team, a supportive borough group and a council that is looking to develop its cycling infrastructure. &nbsp;I’m also proud of the work of our Safer Routes forum and our collaborative achievements across the nineteen or so schools we represent. </span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I would love to say that our council has been bold enough to push for ‘School Healthy Streets’ as we have seen emerging in Camden in Hackney, but for now we have to look on admiringly at the hard work and dedication put in by all involved to create safer walking and cycling routes for the families at those schools.</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We are far, far more fortunate than many schools in London. &nbsp;We have a fantastic traffic free cycling route passing with a few metres of our school, which many of our families use to get to and from school. However, it is terrifying that a ‘healthy’ school run remains a matter of luck and we must do all we can to work together to ensure safe, connected cycle routes exist across the capital.</span></div><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Amy Foster, Southwark Healthy Schools Champion and chair of the Dulwich and Herne Hill Safe Routes to School forum.</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RWkB64szhSQ/WbVce49PcRI/AAAAAAAACh0/YvDBLcDc-_kKyksxXyEb6414e5C9TllewCKgBGAs/s1600/eDPP_0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RWkB64szhSQ/WbVce49PcRI/AAAAAAAACh0/YvDBLcDc-_kKyksxXyEb6414e5C9TllewCKgBGAs/s320/eDPP_0002.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Bessemer Grange family riding to school. Photo credit: Leo Shum</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>Amy Fosterhttps://plus.google.com/118389954995580343968noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-54619765989592000142017-07-21T07:34:00.000+01:002017-07-21T07:34:20.941+01:00Ride South London: Saturday July 29th<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-size: 18px; line-height: inherit; text-align: center;">The eagle-eyed amongst you may have spotted the chalk</span><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-size: 18px; line-height: inherit; text-align: center;">&nbsp;messages and posters on Green Dale advertising the Ride South London information. Here are the details from their website:&nbsp;</span></i></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-size: 18px; line-height: inherit; text-align: center;"><br /></strong></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-size: 18px; line-height: inherit; text-align: center;">Saturday 29th July</strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-size: 18px; text-align: center;">&nbsp;is the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.prudentialridelondon.co.uk/events/freecycle/" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #e8554e; font-size: 18px; line-height: inherit; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none; transition: 0.2s; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Prudential RideLondon FreeCycle</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-size: 18px; text-align: center;">, now in its 5th year.</span></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-size: 18px; text-align: center;"><br /></span></span><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-family: &quot;Fanwood Text&quot;, serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 1.5em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">It’s a unique chance to experience central London on two wheels without the noise, danger and pollution of motor traffic. The eight mile closed road loop takes in sights like Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, the London Eye and views along the Embankment. There’ll be music, sights, food and fun – and the whole thing is free.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-family: &quot;Fanwood Text&quot;, serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 1.5em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">But.</strong></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-family: &quot;Fanwood Text&quot;, serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 1.5em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">Getting there from South London on a bike can seem pretty daunting to the uninitiated – especially if you’re travelling with kids in tow, or aren’t as nimble as you once were. It’s not all that far – even the outer reaches of our route are just seven or eight miles from the centre of town – but if you don’t know where you’re going, it can be a confusing tangle of busy main roads and unfamiliar neighbourhoods.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-family: &quot;Fanwood Text&quot;, serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 1.5em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">So we’re teaming up with an array of community groups, cycling advocacy organisations, schools and bike shops to bring you.. the RIDE (SOUTH) LONDON COMMUNITY FEEDER RIDE.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-family: &quot;Fanwood Text&quot;, serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 1.5em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">Just turn up at any one of our ten designated start points across south London. Bring a working bike (please get yours checked by a mechanic if it’s been in the shed a long while) and a few other bare essentials – water, snack, maybe sunscreen – and we’ll escort you to the main event through parks and along quiet back streets and traffic free cycle paths.</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-family: &quot;Fanwood Text&quot;, serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 1.5em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">See you on the 29th – if you’re coming, please RSVP on the Dulwich page (there are also Crystal Palace, Peckham and Camberwell pages if the locations below don't suit).&nbsp;</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-family: &quot;Fanwood Text&quot;, serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 1.5em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">Approximate distances including one lap of the FreeCycle circuit:</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-family: &quot;Fanwood Text&quot;, serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 1.5em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;"><a href="https://ridesouthlondon.wordpress.com/dulwich/" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #e8554e; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: 0.2s; word-break: break-word;">Dulwich Kingsdale</a>&nbsp;– 20 miles (recommended minimum age 7) 9.15am</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-family: &quot;Fanwood Text&quot;, serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 1.5em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;"><a href="https://ridesouthlondon.wordpress.com/dulwich/" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #e8554e; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: 0.2s; word-break: break-word;">Dulwich Common</a>&nbsp;– 18 miles&nbsp;(recommended minimum age 7) 9.30am&nbsp;</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-family: &quot;Fanwood Text&quot;, serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 1.5em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;"><a href="https://ridesouthlondon.wordpress.com/dulwich/" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #e8554e; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: 0.2s; word-break: break-word;">Dulwich Park</a>&nbsp;– 17 miles&nbsp;(recommended minimum age 7) 9.45am</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #888888; font-family: &quot;Fanwood Text&quot;, serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 1.5em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;"><a href="https://ridesouthlondon.wordpress.com/dulwich/" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #e8554e; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: 0.2s; word-break: break-word;">Dulwich Green Dale</a>&nbsp;– 16 miles (recommended minimum age 6) 10am</div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 1.5em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;"><i style="color: #888888; font-family: &quot;Fanwood Text&quot;, serif; font-size: 18px;">To sign up and find out more, please visit&nbsp;</i><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18px;"><span style="color: #0000ee; font-family: Fanwood Text, serif;"><i><u>https://ridesouthlondon.wordpress.com/dulwich/</u></i></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6mjhHrRjHHw/WXGgE96jF6I/AAAAAAAABwE/DuzrTBdeUiM8csuQjFxajwCPPbGlAe56QCLcBGAs/s1600/ridelondoncommunity-dulwich.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="979" data-original-width="748" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6mjhHrRjHHw/WXGgE96jF6I/AAAAAAAABwE/DuzrTBdeUiM8csuQjFxajwCPPbGlAe56QCLcBGAs/s320/ridelondoncommunity-dulwich.png" width="244" /></a></div><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 1.5em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18px;"><span style="color: #888888; font-family: Fanwood Text, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>Amy Fosterhttps://plus.google.com/118389954995580343968noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-7545419886087955132017-06-12T21:22:00.001+01:002017-06-15T14:50:27.417+01:00The Big Shift at Dulwich College<div class="WordSection1" style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe WP&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI WPC&quot;, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><tbody><tr style="height: 189.05pt;"><td style="height: 189.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top"><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11pt;">Across Dulwich College’s five schools we made a dedicated effort in the second week in May to change the way we travelled to school, following the SUSTRANS blue print of ‘The Big Shift’ – an active shift towards more active and sustainable travel.&nbsp; All staff and boys were asked to make a pledge to make a conscientious effort to change during that week.&nbsp; It was recognised that many families couldn’t change their means and route to school (as they have to use the Foundation Coach Service or lived too far away) so they were equally valued if they managed to change their travel over their weekend.&nbsp;</span><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11.5pt;">The pledges for more sustainable and active travel have rolled in and lots of boys have walked and cycled to school over the course of this week (see pledge wall photo here). Such is the commitment that one boy, who lives very close to the school and who normally walks, said that he became more active by 'sprinting' to school instead.</span></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11pt;"></span></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sWaoJ9IpRlw/WUKP6zdysGI/AAAAAAAABcM/djbw_MV-qZMycHV4G4z8L7ZOO4PTQdzAgCLcBGAs/s1600/image001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="231" data-original-width="308" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sWaoJ9IpRlw/WUKP6zdysGI/AAAAAAAABcM/djbw_MV-qZMycHV4G4z8L7ZOO4PTQdzAgCLcBGAs/s1600/image001.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><span style="color: #212121; font-size: 11pt;">In addition to the pledges we had a number of other events to promote better ways of coming to school and travelling.&nbsp; In the Junior School and at DUCKS we had a&nbsp;</span><span style="color: #212121; font-size: 11.5pt;">&nbsp;Bike Breakfast which allowed any boy who had made a difference in their travel to enjoy a pain au chocolat and an orange juice. For example there were many stories of boys cycling with their parents, car sharing, taking the bus, and walking to football club!</span></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11pt;">At DUCKS there was a bikeability programme for young riders and Dr Bike came to repair and tune the children’s bikes. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11.5pt;">Also all the boys in Year 6, and many from the rest of the school, attempted the Rollapaluza static bike racing event. A wonderful burst of 15 – 20 seconds of energy (actually feels a lot longer than you think!) which is the equivalent of racing 250m – i.e. once round a velodrome. There were prizes for the first three boys in each year group.&nbsp; Also there was a puncture repair competition (the fastest being 1 min 14 seconds!)</span><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11.5pt;">.</span><br /><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11.5pt;"><br /></span></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmd3P8YINyk/WUKP6_So6BI/AAAAAAAABcQ/S34Ny2icJ0Qh6Zc3p6-eMxsIA96sGGTLACLcBGAs/s1600/image002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="256" data-original-width="344" height="238" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmd3P8YINyk/WUKP6_So6BI/AAAAAAAABcQ/S34Ny2icJ0Qh6Zc3p6-eMxsIA96sGGTLACLcBGAs/s320/image002.png" width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11.5pt;">We had the Met Police bring in an HGV to show the boys about sight lines from a lorry cab to help cyclists and pedestrians as part of their Exchanging Places programme. They also brought their bike-marking team to help register lots of the boys’ bikes - 29 were done in all.</span></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11.5pt;"></span></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11.5pt;">In several assemblies across the school, Jem Stein from Bike Project talked to the boys about his project of donating bikes to refugees. &nbsp;By the end of the week 24 bikes had been donated.</span></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Gfu5nQuaJY/WUKP646K7JI/AAAAAAAABcI/dIhOsEPzGck2fZmsh3AiJtLOy95MOF3DQCLcBGAs/s1600/image003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="239" data-original-width="319" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Gfu5nQuaJY/WUKP646K7JI/AAAAAAAABcI/dIhOsEPzGck2fZmsh3AiJtLOy95MOF3DQCLcBGAs/s1600/image003.png" /></a></div><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11.5pt;">Finally, in assembly at DUCKs and the Junior School we heard from 20 year old Abi Von Twisk who grew up training at the Herne Hill Velodrome and is now a professional cyclist with the DROPS pro team. She talked about how she became a professional, the sorts of racing that she does and what life as a professional cyclist with warm weather training in Australia feels like.</span></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;"></span><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;"></span></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-88KK4sHcNXo/WUKP7SfOlBI/AAAAAAAABcU/APZYYF2p4RAGGHTkwOgfxbyNzNfNjUTuQCLcBGAs/s1600/image004.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="351" data-original-width="323" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-88KK4sHcNXo/WUKP7SfOlBI/AAAAAAAABcU/APZYYF2p4RAGGHTkwOgfxbyNzNfNjUTuQCLcBGAs/s320/image004.png" width="294" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="Default" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div></div>Amy Fosterhttps://plus.google.com/118389954995580343968noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-68500335086164826512017-06-09T19:49:00.000+01:002017-06-09T19:49:24.963+01:00National Clean Air Day: June 15thJune 15th is National Clean Air Day.<br /><br />Schools, communities, businesses and individuals can all take part. &nbsp;Pledge to leave the car at home for the day to reduce the amount of pollution you create and join the movement.<br /><br />The website (<a href="https://www.cleanairday.org.uk/" target="_blank">https://www.cleanairday.org.uk/</a>) has free toolkits available for download that schools can use to encourage their pupils to make clean air pledges.<br /><br />The day is supported by various public health authorities across the country and is well worth getting involved in. We at SRS very much support all clean air initiatives, knowing how badly air pollution affects children's health.<br /><br />The link to the schools toolkit is <a href="https://www.cleanairday.org.uk/get-your-school-involved" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br />Please do tweet us any images you have of school pledges made as part of #NationalCleanAirDay as we'd love to know what changes you'd make.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i02AjyFWmMk/WTrtCzLBDgI/AAAAAAAABYk/D6d8GFRAPiYgav4JId-lEf4AAgSrMA6GgCLcB/s1600/toolkit.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="1410" height="102" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i02AjyFWmMk/WTrtCzLBDgI/AAAAAAAABYk/D6d8GFRAPiYgav4JId-lEf4AAgSrMA6GgCLcB/s320/toolkit.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Amy Fosterhttps://plus.google.com/118389954995580343968noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-88694090401849082232017-06-03T16:07:00.000+01:002017-12-05T18:54:16.097+00:00Policy Exchange Symposium<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Amy and I attended a <a href="https://www.publicpolicyexchange.co.uk/events/HC16-PPE" target="_blank">Public Policy Exchange Symposium</a> on boosting cycling activity and improving safety on Thursday 16 March. Below, I have attempted to share a little of what we took away from the day. </span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The morning commenced with an introduction for the Chair, Adrian Lloyd, who is Associate Director of Phil Jones Associates and has had over 20 years consultancy experience in developing strategies and infrastructure to encourage walking and cycling.</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Roger Geffen, Policy Director of Cycling UK was first to talk. He gave a brief outline of Cycling UK’s work and then went on to talk about attracting funding and support for local cycling. He gave details about the exiting Cycling Walking and Investment Strategy (CWIS) which is a Government strategy to create a walking and cycling nation through planning, investing and building infrastructure to generate a behaviour change with the ambition to normalize walking and cycling by 2040. He then went on to discuss the need for protected spaces and other cycling road safety initiatives as well as a need for national design standards for active travel. </span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Next to speak was Richard Owen, Operations Director of Road Safety Analysis. He clarifyed the statistics behind safety in numbers for cyclists in England and demonstrated the relationship between cycling risk and cycling levels. (The cycling exposure or level = number of cyclists per 1,000 population and cycling risk = proportion of casualties out of cycling exposure.) Cities where there was good infrastructure and high levels of cycling i.e. Cambridge and York had low levels of crashes whereas cities such as Liverpool and Bolton which have low levels of cycling and lacking in infrastructure have more accidents. These statistics help inform considerations when designing cycling strategies. </span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Andy Summers, Cycling Strategy and Planning Manager for Transport for London, gave a very interesting presentation about promoting the benefits of cycling and highlighting the advantages of cycling for our health, the environment and the economy. London’s population is set to increase by 2030 to 11 billion people with a large increase in traffic congestion. 19.8 million trips are made by London residents each day and 13 million of these are by motorised modes. 8.17 million journeys could potentially be made by cycling which would counter the future traffic increase due to population growth. It would also help the promotion of local business, global investment from companies who admire the new London cycling infrastructure, not to mention the enormous health benefits with exercise as pollution reduction and cost reductions to the NHS for treating illnesses such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and depression as well as many other ailments. </span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Andy advised when tackling the misconceptions or myths about negative impacts of local cycling infrastructure changes or schemes it is important to have statistical analysis, images and evidence and be able to monitor and benchmark behaviour changes with a baseline. It is more helpful to call schemes ‘healthy streets’ without such an emphasis on cycling and more on the overall positive environmental impact of the change to the community. Andy kindly shared the TfL document, 'A Better Southwark' with us and it is available to download <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B85nyBi4dQsUTjFsR0dpaXcyek0/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After lunch Dr Robert Davies, Chair of the Road Danger Reduction Forum, gave a talk about close passing policing and the policing we need. Close passing policing was introduced by the West Midlands Police in 2016 who are and award winning Police Force for their education of motorists about the safe width for overtaking clearance of 1.5m. This is helping to educate and inform a cultural change about the need to consider cyclists as road users. He explained there is a need to challenge the background assumptions of a car-centric culture i.e. driving is seen as normal and cyclists as a problem or hazardous.</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;">&nbsp;<span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dr Robin Lovelace from the School of Geography, University of Leeds, demonstrated the Propensity to Cycle Tool (see <a href="http://www.pct.bike/" target="_blank">www.pct.bike</a>), a nationally scalable interactive online mapping application (Lovelace et al. 2016). This tool models sustainable transport uptake and visualizing transport futures.</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Xavier Brice from Sustrans showed us, with his presentation, the positive impact of community engagement, individual behaviour change and changing the built environment to the benefit of local communities with sustainable travel initiatives. By working in partnership with the community and empowering individuals to have an influence in local infrastructure issues, it can create higher cycling and walking, improve safety, &nbsp;reduce traffic and enhance the local environment. &nbsp;</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Last to speak was Dr Steve Melia from the University of West England. Steve is a Senior Lecturer in Transport and Planning. His talk was about creating an environment which encourages cycling, redesigning roads, streets and communities. He felt the key principles of infrastructure in successful cycling cities (and countries) were: Effective three way segregation on main roads with priority for cyclists over side roads. Filtered permeability. Joined up continuous networks. Consistent design standards, continuous improvement replacing ineffective compromises. </span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As you can see from the abundance of information provided during the day, there was much discussion and sharing of information. Amy and I left having found the day fascinating and came away full of ideas, interesting material and statistics that we hope we can put into good use with Dulwich and Herne Hill Safe Routes to School initiatives. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WdYZh8qn4tI/WTLPuh0VJ1I/AAAAAAAABUI/QxRibXOUY74ldGQOWYPmLCaM28WFHeifgCLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-06-03%2Bat%2B16.02.56.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="614" data-original-width="752" height="261" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WdYZh8qn4tI/WTLPuh0VJ1I/AAAAAAAABUI/QxRibXOUY74ldGQOWYPmLCaM28WFHeifgCLcB/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-06-03%2Bat%2B16.02.56.png" width="320" /></a></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Image used with permission. Transport for London, <i>Healthy Streets for London</i> (2017)</span></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>Polly Twisk, DUCKS Executive Assistant and Registrar</i></span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>With thanks to the Dulwich Society for their generous support in funding our places</i></span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></div><span id="docs-internal-guid-7b3d6d6e-6e75-c36e-fca7-77989fd5c34a"></span><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 19.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Highlighting the advantages of cycling </span></div>Amy Fosterhttps://plus.google.com/118389954995580343968noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-4133200555229157922017-04-27T10:28:00.000+01:002017-04-27T10:28:52.078+01:00Early years road safety & sustainable travel event 21 JUNE<b style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Dulwich and Herne Hill Safe Routes to School would like to hold an Early Years Event on the afternoon of Wednesday 21 June from 1.30 to 3.30 pm, promoting road safety and sustainable travel to Early Years’ families (0-5 years). The Herne Hill Velodrome have kindly offered to host the event; a stunning venue, especially since its renovation and building of the new pavilion. The Velodrome already runs initiatives for very young children and has excellent coaches, bikes and resources.&nbsp;</span></b><br /><b style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></b><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #500050; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The event planning is in the very early stages so all details will be confirmed after the Easter break. However, please pencil in the date for your Early Years’ pupils. There will be balance bike training, a bike obstacle course, &nbsp;pedestrian training, Dr Bike and other activities taking place.&nbsp; This event is being organised for the participation of local nurseries and primary schools but parents/carers and younger siblings are welcome to come along too.&nbsp;</span></b><span style="color: black;"><u></u><u></u></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #500050; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #500050; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">If you would like further information, please contact Tracey Greenwood on&nbsp;<a href="mailto:greenwoodt@dulwich.org.uk" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0563c1;">greenwoodt@dulwich.org.uk</span></a>&nbsp;</span></b></div>Ros Waltonhttps://plus.google.com/111849772850703335098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-31703323788505012302017-04-22T14:45:00.000+01:002017-04-23T11:50:01.403+01:00Greening Grey BritainAs someone with a rather unloved front garden, I've loved watching <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/profiles/47bpfBnGqgbVGzQ8KQLst7G/joe-swift" target="_blank">Joe Swift</a>&nbsp;on 'The Great British Garden Revival' encouraging us all to cover the concrete with pots and planters and am keen to finally play my part in the RHS' '<a href="https://www.rhs.org.uk/communities/campaigns/greening-grey-britain" target="_blank">Greening Grey Britain Campaign</a>', by digging up some paving slabs and finally being able to do something to make my street a little bit greener and a little bit more attractive.<br /><br />This did mean I was a little surprised (and rather annoyed!) to see an episode of 'Homes Under the Hammer' in which the advice, given several times, was to pave over the front of one of the properties to create space for a car to 'add value'. Is it really more valuable to turn our gardens into parking spaces? Can we be bold and say that paving over entire front gardens is making our streets look ugly, damaging our local environment and making pavements unsafe, all for the sake of personal convenience?<br /><br />We were fortunate enough to attend Southwark's '<a href="http://landor.co.uk/transforminglondon/2016/programme.php" target="_blank">Transforming London's Streets</a>' conference in September and one of the speakers, <a href="http://www.urbandesignskills.com/about" target="_blank">Rob Cowan of Urban Design Skills</a>, promoted the view that councils could be bold and refuse new applications for dropped kerbs and that we should instead be promoting the view that greener, planted gardens create better community spaces. One of his arguments for this view is that our pavements would become safer if they stopped becoming access points for parking spots and were transformed into safe, communal spaces.<br /><br />I must agree that I worry many streets aren't safe enough for my daughter to scoot or ride on ahead of me due to the number of driveways she'd have to cross. Is digging up our driveways the way to create more safe place for play?<br /><br />Agreed, it would be inconvenient not to be able to park exactly where you want, when you want. But perhaps, if we couldn't, we might start considering options such as car clubs, more seriously. Or perhaps, we may even consider the 5 minute journey to pick up the car enough of an inconvenience to consider ditching it altogether to get the bus or train instead. And from there it could even get us walking and cycling more.<br /><br />Obviously, for some of us, parking nearby is essential, as even short journeys on foot are impossible. But I do wonder; if our neighbourhoods were designed differently, would we see more octogenarians cycling regularly, as the Dutch and Danish communities do? <a href="http://www.wheelsforwellbeing.org.uk/" target="_blank">Wheels for Wellbeing</a>, our local inclusive cycling charity, has long called for infrastructure that would let users of adapted cycles get around as safely and easily as those on two wheels. <br /><br />Granted, we don't all wish to cycle, wherever we go however, we should all feel we <i>can</i>&nbsp;do so, if we so wish. This isn't the case as present, which is perhaps why removing parking spaces from our homes seems to many a ridiculous thing to do.<br /><br /><a href="https://ralphbu.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Ralph Buehler</a>, an urban affairs and planning academic,&nbsp;recently gave a presentation to the London Cycling Campaign's policy forum. He presented research he'd conducted in cities that had had great success in affecting large modal shift away from the car, to walking and cycling. &nbsp;Buehler's work revealed his interviewees had two common points of agreement in how this shift had been produced; make parking more harder and invest in public transport.<br /><br />So if are going to become a city in which we walk and cycle more than we drive, perhaps we will have to make some tough decisions. And perhaps moving our cars away from the front of our homes is the first step to doing this.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tBrUqt-DPuc/WPtdCXOnXtI/AAAAAAAAA84/24_4_vi63Ww2GlOSVliB8_-XYaf3m-ClgCLcB/s1600/download.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tBrUqt-DPuc/WPtdCXOnXtI/AAAAAAAAA84/24_4_vi63Ww2GlOSVliB8_-XYaf3m-ClgCLcB/s1600/download.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Photo copyright the RHS: Greening Grey Britain<br /><a href="https://www.rhs.org.uk/science/gardening-in-a-changing-world/greening-grey-britain/urban-planting">https://www.rhs.org.uk/science/gardening-in-a-changing-world/greening-grey-britain/urban-planting</a><br /><br />RHS front Garden Guide available <a href="https://www.rhs.org.uk/science/pdf/climate-and-sustainability/urban-greening/gardening-matters-front-gardens-urban-greening" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br /><br />Amy Fosterhttps://plus.google.com/118389954995580343968noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-45902451463080144982017-02-27T22:20:00.001+00:002017-02-28T08:42:42.912+00:00Sustainable Transport & Health 2017This weekend saw 2017's Landor Links '<a href="http://www.landor.co.uk/transporthealth/home.php" target="_blank">Sustainable Transport and Public Health</a>' summit in Bristol which I attended on behalf of the SRS forum.<br /><br />My arrival in Bristol coincided with Storm Doris' and the city tour, led by <a href="http://www.bris.ac.uk/social-community-medicine/people/jessica-read/about.html" target="_blank">Jessica Read</a> (an engineer and urban planner working on 'healthy cities), was a somewhat blustery start to proceedings!<br /><br />The tour started with a simple question; how many of us had known anyone who had died before their time from heart disease? Or cancer... or dementia... or a respiratory illness? Coronary heart disease is one of the biggest causes of premature death, yet an active lifestyle &nbsp;reduces the chances of having a heart attack by 30%. It seems a no-brainer to suggest we should all be walking and cycling on a daily basis, yet the reality is that many of our roads simply aren't safe enough for our most vulnerable citizens.<br /><br />The biggest cause of death of children aged 10-18 is from <a href="http://www.rcpch.ac.uk/improving-child-health/child-mortality/child-mortality" target="_blank">road traffic accident</a>s. &nbsp;Read highlighted the fact many parents don't feel safe enough allowing their child to walk on their own to the shops, and statistically, they are right to be worried. It is much riskier for a child to cross the road on their own in the UK, than it is to drive them where they need to go. Yet, walking is a habit and if children don't grow up seeing walking and cycling as 'normal' modes of transport, they will be unlikely to choose to do so as adults.<br /><br />And equally, elderly people surveyed reported that the threat of being knocked over by a cyclist was enough to deter them from walking even short distances, despite the fact that walking, which maintains bone density and muscle mass, would actually reduce their risk of falling.<br /><br />Read's point was that we need suitable infrastructure for pedestrians and separate infrastructure for cyclists. Segregated bike lanes &nbsp;keep faster moving bikes on the road, away from walkers and safe from traffic, while clear, safe crossings are essential in order to make walking as attractive as cycling.<br /><br />Making people feel invited to walk or cycle was a point picked up again and again over the two days. References were made to Lucy Sauders' 'Healthy Streets' approach and lots of inspiring global case studies were shared, proving it is possible to make huge changes, such as those made by Mayor Bloomberg's team in New York. &nbsp;These transport case studies were presented alongside presentations from public health experts, including the World Health Organisation's Francesca Racioppi and Public Health England's Dr Ann Marie Connolly, on the benefits of active travel on mental and physical health, as well as of the disbenefits of poor air quality and lack of exercise.<br /><br />The summit rightly raised many concerns about the future health of our young people. It does seem like an insurmountable challenge at times. However, there was much to be positive about; Solihull Council seem set to follow the <a href="http://camden.gov.uk/ccm/content/transport-and-streets/traffic-management/road-safety-in-camden/road-safety-for-children/healthy-school-streets/" target="_blank">Healthy School Streets</a> model adopted in Edinburgh and Camden and hearing the team at <a href="https://www.livingstreets.org.uk/who-we-are/our-organisation" target="_blank">Living Streets</a> speak about their work across the country was inspiring.<br /><br />However, the conference left me in no doubt that Safe Routes to School must do all it can to support fellow organisations campaigning to improve road safety. &nbsp;The<a href="http://www.20splenty.org/" target="_blank"> 20's plenty</a> campaign has been hugely successful across London and is making a real difference in Southwark. &nbsp;We will continue to support the <a href="http://stopkillingcyclists.org/2017/01/31/hm-treasury-10-2020-stop-killing-cyclists-protest/" target="_blank">10% by 2020 </a>campaign, as proper investment in cycling and walking infrastructure is needed if we want to build a future in which our children can walk to the shops on their own. Safely.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K4eMpXjNr_Q/WLSl4xtR7MI/AAAAAAAAATk/wbJ7vZ0dcpI0W4SPho5wOdHbeX54IE9mwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4171%2B%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K4eMpXjNr_Q/WLSl4xtR7MI/AAAAAAAAATk/wbJ7vZ0dcpI0W4SPho5wOdHbeX54IE9mwCLcB/s320/IMG_4171%2B%25281%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Amy Fosterhttps://plus.google.com/118389954995580343968noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-29907504719003905062017-02-11T20:40:00.002+00:002017-02-15T12:57:06.510+00:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aEqJdbh3k8k/WJ92DYZkV_I/AAAAAAAAASw/CHCNYutUIygRX2ZLMvneau5RtaMvvNr9ACLcB/s1600/IMG_4089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aEqJdbh3k8k/WJ92DYZkV_I/AAAAAAAAASw/CHCNYutUIygRX2ZLMvneau5RtaMvvNr9ACLcB/s320/IMG_4089.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: center;">#10by2020</h2><div>The '<a href="http://stopkillingcyclists.org/" target="_blank">Stop Killing Cyclists</a>' campaign group held their '10 by 2020' march to the treasury on Saturday 11th February. The event was also a vigil for the three cyclists killed on London's roads that week and a very poignant statement from the husband of Anita Szucs, who was killed in an apparent hit and run, was read out and the dangers of poor air quality were emphasised alongside that of road safety for both pedestrians and cyclists.<br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.wheelsforwellbeing.org.uk/fundraising/" target="_blank">Wheels for Wellbeing</a> is an inclusive cycling charity based in Herne Hill (using the veldrome for all ability sessions) and we are vocal in our support of their work. &nbsp;Abigail Tripp, one of their team, also spoke at the event and we were extremely saddened to hear that she has been severely injured in a cycling accident earlier this year. We wish her a swift recovery and wish to thank her for sharing her experiences with us at #10by2020. <br /><br /></div><div>On a more positive note, we would like to think that the commitment made by Edinburgh Council to allocate 10% of its transport budget to improved cycling and walking infrastructure is an exciting move. Edinburgh Council's '<a href="http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/streetsahead/info/35/school_travel/87/school_streets" target="_blank">School Streets</a>' scheme has already set a precedent in London as has now been taken up by <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-38894174" target="_blank">one school in Camden</a> and another&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-38894174" target="_blank">five more in Hackney</a>&nbsp;are promised (and who knows, one day perhaps, even Southwark?) &nbsp;Let us then hope they can set another excellent example with their commitment to increased infrastructure spending and that this will indeed lead to safer streets for all.</div><div><br /></div>Amy Fosterhttps://plus.google.com/118389954995580343968noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-53543812631904349732017-02-11T12:46:00.001+00:002017-02-15T12:57:53.079+00:00Half-Term in London<h2 style="text-align: center;"><u>Active Travel Events</u></h2><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VEj-8oc_S58/WJ8HtlCwvTI/AAAAAAAAASc/tAYVYSZQxvYd_QXL9rwYl-A8rxTIx45aQCLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-02-11%2Bat%2B12.46.33.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VEj-8oc_S58/WJ8HtlCwvTI/AAAAAAAAASc/tAYVYSZQxvYd_QXL9rwYl-A8rxTIx45aQCLcB/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-02-11%2Bat%2B12.46.33.png" width="224" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">There are many events for families interested in active travel this half-term. &nbsp;Today (Saturday 11th February) sees the <a href="http://stopkillingcyclists.org/" target="_blank">Stop Killing Cyclists </a>vigil and family-friendly march, calling for increased spending on walking and cycling, following UN recommendations. The <a href="https://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/upcoming-treasury-protest-feb-11th/" target="_blank">Southwark Cyclists</a> will be leading a guided ride from Peckham Square for anyone unsure of how to ride into the National Gallery, where the event begins.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">Throughout the week, Cycle Confident will be running free Bikeability courses for anyone aged 6 &nbsp;and over in Dulwich Park. &nbsp;To sign up visit www.cycleconfident.com.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.hernehillvelodrome.com/whats-on/training-sessions/kids/" target="_blank">Herne Hill Velodrome</a> is running their children's cycling sessions throughout the week and the <a href="https://www.visitleevalley.org.uk/en/content/cms/kids-families/school-holiday-fun/" target="_blank">Lee Valley Centre</a> offers Athletics Master classes as well as track or mountain biking taster sessions at the Velo Park.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.parkrun.org.uk/brockwell-juniors/" target="_blank">Brockwell Junior Park Run </a>is open for all 4-14 year olds looking to get PBs on 2km courses. &nbsp;The next one will be Saturday 19th at 9am.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">Equally, if anyone's on the lookout for a new bike, the London Bike Show is on from Thursday 16th.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">There will be stalls from family cycling specialists including <a href="http://www.londongreencycles.co.uk/" target="_blank">London Green Cycles</a>, <a href="http://www.islabikes.co.uk/test-ride" target="_blank">Isla Bikes</a>&nbsp;and a 'Street Velodrome' with children's team cycling competitions for 3-11 year olds and individual competitions for 12-16 year olds. Enter online <a href="http://www.streetvelodrome.co.uk/single-post/2017/01/17/2017-KIDS-SERIES-LAUNCH-EVENT" target="_blank">here</a>.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">Enjoy!</div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Amy Fosterhttps://plus.google.com/118389954995580343968noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-72480158927592609792016-06-03T13:40:00.003+01:002016-06-03T13:41:42.085+01:00Southwark Civic Award<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VPewllK5WR4/V1F5QoHagzI/AAAAAAAABYM/g-cT96-OmbwcIUAPjITAnWkGZb7VsUArwCLcB/s1600/035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VPewllK5WR4/V1F5QoHagzI/AAAAAAAABYM/g-cT96-OmbwcIUAPjITAnWkGZb7VsUArwCLcB/s400/035.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Rehan Jamil</td></tr></tbody></table>On 14th May at Southwark Cathedral, Southwark Council awarded Dulwich and Herne Hill Safe Routes to School the Liberty of the Old Metropolitan Borough of Camberwell for exceptional contributions to community safety.<br /><br />The Southwark Civic Awards celebrate Southwark's roots as 'London’s most historic borough' by conferring the liberties of the three metropolitan boroughs from which The London Borough of Southwark was formed in 1965 – Bermondsey, Camberwell, and Southwark. Dulwich and Herne Hill Safe Routes to School was one of just four organisations, businesses or community projects to be awarded one of the highest honours which Southwark can bestow, given for exceptional contributions to civic, community or family life.<br /><br />Dulwich and Herne Hill Safe Routes to School addresses the issues that arise from over 10,000 children (excluding nurseries) attending 20 schools in our neighbourhood. The group is comprised of the schools of Village and College Wards plus Bessemer Grange and their parent representatives, and works with Southwark councillors, officers and local residents' organisations to promote active, safe and healthy journeys to and from school, for the benefit of both our children and the wider community.<br /><br />Thanks to everyone who is helping to improve the way we use our streets. There is more to do so please get involved! Lucynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-74204037550093520602016-03-12T10:41:00.001+00:002017-03-23T16:53:14.988+00:00Quietway 7 - comment by March 13th<span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Thanks to those who are engaging with the process and responding to Southwark on the detail of particular interventions proposed. The next series of consultations close on 13 March.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"><span style="color: #1f497d;"><a href="https://consultations.southwark.gov.uk/environment-leisure/dulwich-village-to-calton-avenue" target="_blank">https://consultations.southwark.gov.uk/environment-leisure/dulwich-village-to-calton-avenue</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"><span style="color: #1f497d;"><a href="https://consultations.southwark.gov.uk/environment-leisure/dulwich-village-junction" target="_blank">https://consultations.southwark.gov.uk/environment-leisure/dulwich-village-junction</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"><span style="color: #1f497d;"><a href="https://consultations.southwark.gov.uk/environment-leisure/turney-road-to-dulwich-village" target="_blank">https://consultations.southwark.gov.uk/environment-leisure/turney-road-to-dulwich-village</a></span></div><a href="https://consultations.southwark.gov.uk/environment-leisure/dulwich-wood-avenue-to-farquhar-road" style="font-family: uictfonttextstyletallbody; font-size: 17px;" target="_blank">https://consultations.southwark.gov.uk/environment-leisure/dulwich-wood-avenue-to-farquhar-roa</a><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: &quot;uictfonttextstyletallbody&quot;; font-size: 17px;">d</span><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"></span><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></div>Lucynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-73487999341808535212016-01-29T15:14:00.000+00:002016-01-29T17:47:38.906+00:00New zebra crossing<blockquote style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" type="cite"><blockquote type="cite"><blockquote type="cite">The Dulwich Community Council this week approved a bid for a zebra crossing on Burbage Road where it meets Half Moon Lane. &nbsp;This will be paid for from the 'Cleaner, Greener, Safer' fund.</blockquote></blockquote></blockquote>This is a busy route for pedestrians and many families walk this walk to school. Unfortunately previous attempts at traffic calming had not prevented ongoing reports of incidents at this crossing with drivers in a hurry failing to give way to pedestrians.<br /><blockquote style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" type="cite"><blockquote type="cite"><blockquote type="cite">Very many thanks to our local Councillors for supporting measures to make walking in this area safer and more welcoming.&nbsp;</blockquote></blockquote></blockquote>Lucynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-4477224749114614852015-11-04T15:56:00.004+00:002015-11-04T15:56:48.839+00:00Meeting this evening<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There's an open meeting this evening with Andrew Gilligan from the Mayor of London's office - discussing ideas and next steps to improve cycle routes in and around Dulwich.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6.30 at the Herne Hill Methodist Hall in Half Moon Lane. Agenda below.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NVO34Ux3Np4/VjoqQL75EhI/AAAAAAAABXw/sLG7KAKkJy4/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-11-04%2Bat%2B15.54.15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NVO34Ux3Np4/VjoqQL75EhI/AAAAAAAABXw/sLG7KAKkJy4/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-11-04%2Bat%2B15.54.15.png" width="470" /></a></div><br />Lucynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-58060057469581283152015-09-08T12:57:00.000+01:002015-09-17T17:27:09.699+01:00Quietways in Dulwich?<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1441705237370_21142" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;">Lambeth and Southwark Councils and Transport for London are proposing a Quietway running from Greendale via Calton Avenue and Turney Road into Rosendale Road and up to Gipsy Hill. There is an opportunity for all of us to help create&nbsp;peaceful pleasant streets where children can travel independently. Designs might include measures to reduce motor traffic speed or volume to enable this. <br /><br />There are no detailed proposals yet, but plenty of opportunity to have a say in plans which might affect traffic and parking in Dulwich. You can give your views to Southwark&nbsp;<a href="https://consultations.southwark.gov.uk/environment-leisure/quietway-in-dulwich" target="_blank">here.&nbsp;</a></div><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1441705237370_21142" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xPI2DJM0deU/VfCaAWpYdHI/AAAAAAAABXA/5nnUwbuqCTk/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-09-09%2Bat%2B21.43.11.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xPI2DJM0deU/VfCaAWpYdHI/AAAAAAAABXA/5nnUwbuqCTk/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-09-09%2Bat%2B21.43.11.png" width="169" /></a></div>Sustrans is leading the community engagement process for this work, and is keen to hear from residents about how we can solve traffic problems in our area and ensure pleasant streets for us to live in. &nbsp;</div><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1441705237370_21156" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;">All are welcome to discuss potential changes and share view and ideas to inform Southwark and Lambeth plans, by attending any of the following meetings. (Meeting info updated below).&nbsp;</div><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1441705237370_21156" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1441705237370_21158" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;"><br /><br /></div><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1441705237370_21164" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20675" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;">Dulwich Society Public meeting - all welcome</div><ul id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20673" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 10px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;"><li id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20672" style="margin: 0.3em 0px 0.3em 1.6em; padding: 0px;">Saturday 19 September, 2.00pm-4.00pm – St Barnabas Church Community Suite, 40 Calton Avenue, SE21 7DG</li></ul><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20671" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;">Dulwich/Lambeth Quietway (Southwark) &nbsp; &nbsp;Turney Road/Calton Avenue<br /><br />Quietway walkabouts “to visit the route together at peak times”:&nbsp;</div><ul id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20670" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 10px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;"><li id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20669" style="margin: 0.3em 0px 0.3em 1.6em; padding: 0px;">Thursday 17th September, 8:00-9.30am/3.00-4.30pm/5.30-7.00pm - meet Calton Ave/Townley Road Junction</li></ul><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20681" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;">Quietway workshops<br />First two workshops:<br />“to begin focused discussions on possible design solutions, attendance is only required for one, the format will be the same for each”:&nbsp;</div><ul id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20683" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 10px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;"><li id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20682" style="margin: 0.3em 0px 0.3em 1.6em; padding: 0px;">Wednesday 23 September, 6.30pm-8.30pm - Southwark Community Sports Trust Pavilion, Turney Road, SE24 9HP</li></ul><ul id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20685" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 10px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;"><li id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20684" style="margin: 0.3em 0px 0.3em 1.6em; padding: 0px;">Saturday 26 September, 11.00am- 1.00pm - St Barnabas Parish Hall, Gilkes Place, SE21 7BT</li></ul><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20686" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;">Concept Design workshop:<br />“narrowing down the options and coming to a consensus”:&nbsp;</div><ul id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20688" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 10px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;"><li id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20687" style="margin: 0.3em 0px 0.3em 1.6em; padding: 0px;">Saturday 3 October, 1.00pm-3.00pm - St Barnabas Church Community Suite, 40 Calton Avenue, SE21 7DG</li></ul><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20689" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;">Dulwich/Lambeth Quietway (Lambeth)<br />Rosendale Road/Clive Road/Gipsy Hill<br /><br />The consultations dates are as follows:<br /><br />First Workshop (information gathering drop in)<br />“will be focused on sharing information. Sustrans will present the Quietway programme, listen to residents’ experiences of what is currently happening on local roads, and discuss how a reduction in travelling through the area might be best achieved”</div><ul style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 10px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0.3em 0px 0.3em 1.6em; padding: 0px;">Wednesday 30 September, 5.00pm-8.00pm – All Saints Church , Lovelace Rd, SE21 8JY</li></ul><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20690" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;">Second Workshop (co-design workshop)<br />“an opportunity for residents to explore and develop a range of ideas in collaboration with engineers”</div><ul id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20692" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 10px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;"><li id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20691" style="margin: 0.3em 0px 0.3em 1.6em; padding: 0px;">Saturday 10 October, 10.30am–1.00pm - All Saints Church , Lovelace Rd, SE21 8JY</li></ul><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20693" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;">Third Workshop (co-design workshop)<br />“an additional opportunity for residents to explore and develop a range of ideas in collaboration with engineers”</div><ul style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 10px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0.3em 0px 0.3em 1.6em; padding: 0px;">Wednesday 14 October, 5.00pm-7.30pm – All Saints Church , Lovelace Rd, SE21 8JY</li></ul><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20694" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;">Fourth Workshop (feedback concept showcase)<br />“Sustrans will present a shortlist of variable concept designs”:</div><ul style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 10px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0.3em 0px 0.3em 1.6em; padding: 0px;">Saturday 24 October, 10.30am-2.30pm - All Saints Church , Lovelace Rd, SE21 8JY</li></ul><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20695" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;">‘Cycling in Dulwich’ - to include route of Southwark Spine<br />The following two meetings will cover the same ground, so no need to attend both</div><ul id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20700" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 10px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;"><li id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20699" style="margin: 0.3em 0px 0.3em 1.6em; padding: 0px;">Tuesday 13 October, 6.30pm-8.30pm - Kingswood House, Seeley Drive, London SE21 8QN</li></ul><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20698" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;">NB: Book on Eventbrite http://cyclingindulwichworkshop1.eventbrite.com</div><ul id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20697" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 10px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;"><li id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20696" style="margin: 0.3em 0px 0.3em 1.6em; padding: 0px;">Wednesday 4 November, 6.30pm-8.30pm - Herne Hill Methodist Church Hall, 155 Half Moon Lane, London SE24 9TG</li></ul><div style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 10px; padding: 0px;">NB: Book on Eventbrite http://cyclingindulwichworkshop2.eventbrite.com</div><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442493290092_20703"><br /></div></div>Lucynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-42079305641159749232015-05-05T12:50:00.001+01:002015-05-05T22:48:16.267+01:00Route planningWhen you take a look at Dulwich from the air, the amount of green space is staggering. What a fantastic place to live, work or go to school. <br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tDkI55av1Vk/VUiq7tv0soI/AAAAAAAABVs/kxnMuenbMmk/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-05-05%2Bat%2B12.13.37.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tDkI55av1Vk/VUiq7tv0soI/AAAAAAAABVs/kxnMuenbMmk/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-05-05%2Bat%2B12.13.37.png" height="400" width="281" /></a><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Something you can’t see from such a zoomed out view is the mad rush of our school run, where &gt;10,000 children cross a 2.5 mile radius each morning. It can be stressful and uncomfortable trying to negotiate busy streets where everyone is in a hurry.</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To help more families plan active journeys to school or around the local area we have developed a route-planning map.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The best way of using this is to have a careful look as a family, and talk to others about how they walk or cycle to school, so you can find out others' hidden gems and work out which suit you.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The map shows safe crossing points - including those staffed by crossing patrols who do a great job of keeping an eye out for our children, particularly those travelling alone.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We've also tried to capture some of the local knowledge of cut through routes that offer an alternative to busy, polluted roads. These include the many routes through local parks and green spaces.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you have to drive occasionally we hope you will consider one of the suggested ‘park and stride’ locations to reduce congestion and motor traffic danger near the school gates.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The map has been developed by the Safe Routes to school group, with support from the Dulwich Community Council, as part of our work to promote safe, healthy and environmentally friendly journeys to school.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We continue to support plans across London to reallocate road space to create areas where children can walk and cycle without having to worry about sharing a road with cars, buses and lorries.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In the meantime, if you have a careful look you might already be able to achieve a pollution-free, traffic-free route that's quick, pleasant and easy for some of your regular journeys through Dulwich - and leave the car at home more often.</span></span>Lucynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-57338554841768575952015-02-26T16:00:00.003+00:002015-03-06T19:36:20.349+00:00Townley Road/ East Dulwich Grove reconsultation<div class="yiv1322424270MsoNormal" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1424962914164_2966" style="line-height: 15.859999656677246px; margin-bottom: 1em; padding: 0px;"><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1424962914164_2965" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.22em;"><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1424962914164_2964" style="line-height: 1.22em;">Southwark officers have reworked the design for the Townley Road/ East Dulwich Grove/ Greendale junction, taking into account comments and suggestions from local people.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.southwark.gov.uk/info/200308/current/3729/townley_road_junction_scheme_re-consultation" target="_blank">Have your say on the 're-consultation' </a>by 13 March.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.22em;"><span style="line-height: 1.22em;"><br /></span></span><span style="line-height: 19.520000457763672px;">P</span><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 1.22em;">lease support Southwark in its important work to&nbsp;</span><span style="line-height: 16.266666412353516px;">help make</span><span style="line-height: 1.22em;">&nbsp;walking and cycling easy, quick and sensible options for&nbsp;<u>all</u>&nbsp;children. Fewer cars on the school run would benefit us all.</span></span></span></div><div class="yiv1322424270MsoNormal" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1424962914164_2966" style="margin-bottom: 1em; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-RhjTy9ITlZY%2FVO83d1MBrHI%2FAAAAAAAABTg%2FvsyakXgQM4A%2Fs1600%2FScreen%252BShot%252B2015-02-26%252Bat%252B15.09.48.png&amp;container=blogger&amp;gadget=a&amp;rewriteMime=image%2F*" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; line-height: 15.859999656677246px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RhjTy9ITlZY/VO83d1MBrHI/AAAAAAAABTg/vsyakXgQM4A/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-02-26%2Bat%2B15.09.48.png" height="200" width="138" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 1.22em;">We particularly welcome the shorter and more direct pedestrian crossings</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 1.22em;">, and separate traffic lights for cycles to allow children to set off through the junction without being intimidated and endangered by motor vehicles turning across their path.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="line-height: 19.520000457763672px;"><br /></span><span style="line-height: 19.520000457763672px;">This is a busy junction with 1,450 child pedestrian movements between 8 and 9 each morning, as well as a committed and confident minority who cycle. Improving this junction will also benefit those children who won't or don't choose to walk or cycle in current conditions.&nbsp;</span></div><div class="yiv1322424270MsoNormal" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1424962914164_2991" style="line-height: 15.859999656677246px; margin-bottom: 1em; padding: 0px;"><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1424962914164_2990" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.22em;"><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1424962914164_2989" style="line-height: 1.22em;">There will be an exhibition of the proposals at St Barnabas Hall, Dulwich Village from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 28; do go along and ask questions if you are interested.</span></span></div><div class="yiv1322424270MsoNormal" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1424962914164_2991" style="margin-bottom: 1em; padding: 0px;"><div style="line-height: 15.859999656677246px;"><span style="line-height: 1.22em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The proposals will then be presented to the Dulwich Community Council on Tuesday March 17. Subject to approval, works could take place during the summer holidays.</span></span><span style="color: navy; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 1.22em;">&nbsp;</span></div></div>Lucynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-55919468789114024122015-01-27T15:00:00.000+00:002015-01-27T22:55:23.489+00:00Dulwich Community Council 28 January 7pm<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Dulwich Community Council meeting tomorrow evening will hear updates about some of the <a href="http://www.southwark.gov.uk/info/200431/street_improvements" target="_blank">improvements Southwark is planning</a> to streets in our area. This will include information about&nbsp;<a href="http://www.southwark.gov.uk/info/200123/cycling/447/cycle_routes" target="_blank">"Quietways"</a>&nbsp;- a network of calm pleasant streets to encourage sustainable travel - &nbsp;as well as updates on junction schemes in our area.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">There will also be an update about&nbsp;<a href="http://moderngov.southwark.gov.uk/documents/s51361/Townley%20Road%20East%20Dulwich%20Grove%20Green%20Dale%20junction%20improvements.pdf" target="_blank">the Townley Road/ East Dulwich Grove/ Green Dale</a>&nbsp;junction. Following local consultation, the council is looking again at their plans to try to design a scheme which prioritises walking and cycling, while retaining the right turn from Townley Road to East Dulwich Grove.&nbsp;We hope that TfL, Southwark and the Dulwich community can work together to find a solution which allows children walking and cycling to cross the junction separately from motor traffic. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">To inform future plans and&nbsp;priorities, Southwark's website has several interactive maps where you can comment on junctions or routes. If there are parts of your child's journey to school which are particularly busy, difficult or unpleasant - whichever mode of&nbsp;transport they use - please highlight these on Southwark's&nbsp;interactive&nbsp;maps, along with any suggestions for improvements:</span><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-evxLzq_TdgI/VMem37K2vvI/AAAAAAAABTQ/vAsxOgF7xLI/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-01-27%2Bat%2B14.54.40.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-evxLzq_TdgI/VMem37K2vvI/AAAAAAAABTQ/vAsxOgF7xLI/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-01-27%2Bat%2B14.54.40.png" height="304" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.sdgdigital.co.uk/sites/southwarkquietways/" target="_blank">Southwark Quietways</a></span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.sdgdigital.co.uk/sites/southwarkcycling/" target="_blank">Southwark Cycling Strategy consultation</a><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span>Lucynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-85257854875690239402015-01-09T16:48:00.003+00:002015-01-26T08:47:03.620+00:00Townley Road junction - open meeting<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_kFImXdRpQ0/VLAFFaGou1I/AAAAAAAABTA/HAbwW-IA4yA/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-01-09%2Bat%2B16.41.11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_kFImXdRpQ0/VLAFFaGou1I/AAAAAAAABTA/HAbwW-IA4yA/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-01-09%2Bat%2B16.41.11.png" height="640" width="452" /></a><br />There is some ongoing local confusion and concern about the implications of <a href="http://www.southwark.gov.uk/info/200308/current/3639/townley_road" target="_blank">Southwark's plans to improve the junction at Townley Road/ East Dulwich Grove/ Greendale.</a> This junction will be discussed at the <a href="http://moderngov.southwark.gov.uk/ieListMeetings.aspx?CommitteeId=176" target="_blank">Dulwich Community Council meeting on 28th January</a> 7-9pm.<br /><br />We also thought it would be helpful to get together in advance to talk through the issues and agree a positive way forward. Please come along if you are interested: Saturday 17th at 3pm, at St Barnabas Hall (corner of Gilkes Place).<br /><br /><br />Lucynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-63589344698290866592014-12-08T15:18:00.001+00:002015-01-26T09:05:07.490+00:00Dulwich rat runsSeveral residents are concerned about the speed and numbers of cars on the streets, but fear that measures which are designed as improvements for walking and cycling in one area could cause unintended unwanted knock-on effects. Southwark's current consultation about the <a href="http://dulwichsaferoutes.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/east-dulwich-grovetownley-rdgreen-dale.html" target="_blank">Greendale/ Townley/ East Dulwich Grove junction</a> is generating local debate about the best way to make this junction safer for pedestrians and cyclists without creating unintended rat runs elsewhere.<br /><br />Even if we all recognise there's a problem with <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-25622364" target="_blank">traffic congestion</a>, <a href="http://www.roadpeace.org/why/" target="_blank">road danger</a> and <a href="http://www.londonair.org.uk/london/asp/publicstats.asp?statyear=2013" target="_blank">air pollution</a>, and understand the pressures of <a href="http://www.southwark.gov.uk/info/200223/census_2011/2723/census_2011_briefing" target="_blank">increasing populations</a> and <a href="http://freakonomics.com/2011/09/19/the-vanishing-walk-to-school/" target="_blank">changing journey habits</a>, we might have different ideas as to the best 'solution'. Unfortunately this can result in inertia to ask for and reluctance to support any positive change - or worse, set neighbours and the council against each other in binary entrenched positions rather than directing energy at finding a joint solution.<br /><br />We'd welcome a collaborative approach which considers the area as a whole - with the sorts of ideas which&nbsp;<a href="http://dulwichsaferoutes.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/a-breath-of-fresh-air.html" target="_blank">began to be explored with the Dulwich Society and Sustrans in the summer</a> to try to think collectively about how to tackle some of the traffic problems. Where possible and when there are good reasons to do so, we also support temporary measures to 'try it and see', particularly where there can be ongoing monitoring of impact across neighbouring streets, as well as flexibility to amend light phases, alter hours of operation of traffic restrictions, or tweak physical barriers.<br /><br />Can we stop our streets being used as rat runs?<br /><br />Thousands of&nbsp;people who don't live, work or shop here drive through the area every day on their way to another destination, and use easy '<a href="http://www.trafficchoices.co.uk/rat-running.shtml" target="_blank">rat running</a>'&nbsp;short cuts wherever they or their sat-navs can find them. As a result, residential streets are not the safe havens they should be for walking, cycling, playing or chatting with neighbours, even outside the manic school run.<br /><br />These challenges are not unique to Dulwich. Examples from elsewhere of area-wide attempts to address these sorts of issues include:<br /><ul><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PQDwkHfHbig/VIW-mYZwkSI/AAAAAAAABSE/y9M139c_NLM/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-12-08%2Bat%2B15.06.03.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PQDwkHfHbig/VIW-mYZwkSI/AAAAAAAABSE/y9M139c_NLM/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-12-08%2Bat%2B15.06.03.png" height="148" width="200" /></a><li>in parts of Hackney 'filtered permeability' is used in a strategic way to protect residential areas from non-local motor traffic: a series of carefully positioned bollards or planters make a whole network of streets less useful as a rat-running short cut. Residents and their visitors/ deliveries etc can still drive to the door if/when they need to, but can also enjoy greater freedom to walk or cycle peacefully and safely away from fast or busy motor traffic. This method of geographically cocooning the character and residents of an area, while removing barriers for walking and cycling, is common in some parts of Europe, and increasingly being considered in traffic-choked parts of London.</li><li>In response to problems caused by the school run in Scotland (and too many parents believing they must drive their children right to the school gate), there have been trial 'car exclusion zones' with a parking curfew within 300 metres of primary schools at drop off and pick up times. This started in <a href="http://news.stv.tv/east-central/261815-cars-banned-from-haddington-school-run-after-dangerous-parking/" target="_blank">East Lothian</a>, and eleven Edinburgh primary schools will follow next year.</li><li>A new&nbsp;<a href="http://www.trafficchoices.co.uk/rat-running.shtml" target="_blank">'traffic choices'&nbsp;</a>website gives information about traffic issues and illustrates options and potential solutions for people in Bristol and elsewhere. This is worth a look to understand the sorts of choices made by council traffic engineers, and the reasons and cost implications.&nbsp;</li><li>The Mayor of Paris has tried limiting private car traffic by restricting travel to alternate days depending on number plate, and has just announced further plans to <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-30368504" target="_blank">restrict private motor travel</a>&nbsp;across France's capital.</li></ul>Many of the current generation of residents have fond memories of walking and cycling to school and recognise the need for something to change to make these the easy, obvious, safe ways of getting around again. There is an opportunity to use this growing awareness as a catalyst to start thinking about how we can improve our neighbourhoods.<br /><br />Southwark Council has launched an <a href="http://www.sdgdigital.co.uk/sites/southwarkcycling/" target="_blank">interactive map</a>&nbsp;where residents can highlight concerns and suggestions about roads to inform their <a href="http://www.southwark.gov.uk/info/200107/transport_policy/3623/cycling_strategy" target="_blank">draft cycling strategy</a>. If we all share ideas via this tool, as well as positive debate and discussion, can we begin to reclaim more of our streets as safe havens for residents as well as children walking or cycling to school?<br /><br /><br />Lucynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-6633097120103584832014-11-25T12:23:00.000+00:002015-01-26T09:06:09.489+00:00East Dulwich Grove/Townley Rd/Green Dale Junction<b>We are delighted that Southwark Council wants to improve the junction of East Dulwich Grove/Townley Rd/Green Dale. </b>The <a href="http://www.southwark.gov.uk/info/200308/current/3639/townley_road" target="_blank">plans and consultation are on the Southwark website</a>&nbsp;and the consultation is open until 12th December. Please let Southwark know your ideas and comments: chris.mascord@southwark.gov.uk.<br /><br /><i>Update: We understand that responses will be accepted until 19th December (as reported by Cllr James Barber to the East Dulwich Forum). We hope Southwark will consider carefully and share publicly the comments, research, ideas and suggestions which have been put forward as part of the consultation, in order to ensure the best possible scheme for children walking and cycling to the many schools in the area.&nbsp;</i><br /><br />The new design is a step forward for safe, active, independent journeys to school, making the roads more friendly and giving space and time to cross without feeling threatened. The thinking behind this sort of redesign is described in Southwark's draft<a href="http://www.southwark.gov.uk/downloads/download/3976/southwarks_cycling_strategy" target="_blank"> Cycling Strategy</a>:&nbsp;<i>"<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Helvetica;">We have a vision that cycling will be for the many in Southwark, not just the few – the natural choice for getting from A to B - with attractive routes away from large vehicles or fast moving traffic. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: HelveticaNeue;">We want to prioritise cycling, and reallocate road space to cyclists and pedestrians."</span></i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-puCngRIDWp8/VHRL7HB8GjI/AAAAAAAABRk/iswQZ6EjtfY/s1600/Townley_Consultation_Drawing_Final-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-puCngRIDWp8/VHRL7HB8GjI/AAAAAAAABRk/iswQZ6EjtfY/s1600/Townley_Consultation_Drawing_Final-2.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>This junction is particularly busy during the school run as it is immediately in between two large schools. Despite supervision from two lollipop people at school run times, getting between the two schools at opposite corners of the crossing is perilous and uninviting, with pedestrians having to wait several times including on the caged 'refuge' in the middle of the road. The situation for people on bikes is no better, with several lanes to clear while holding your nerve against cars trying to turn across your path. This junction is used by thousands of children and their families on their way to and from local schools, and has been under scrutiny for years.<br /><br /><br />We support junction improvements for the following reasons:<br /><ul><li>The simultaneous straight-across and diagonal "green man" crossings will be shorter, quicker, safer and much more inviting for people on foot - particularly important for children walking to school.</li><li>The advanced traffic lights for cyclists are an improvement, allowing bikes to have a head start to clear the junction without having to compete with motor vehicles (and could allow for a completely separate ‘bike only’ light phase).&nbsp;</li><li>Segregated feeder lanes offer a less intimidating experience for people on bikes filtering past queuing traffic.&nbsp;</li><li>Banning the right turn for vehicles would allow bikes to get across safely from Green Dale to Townley Rd without cars turning across their path. Near misses are common here, as many drivers coming from Townley Road think they have priority, or do not notice cyclists coming from Green Dale (which is a no through road for motor traffic, but leads to a popular quiet walking/cycling route up to Denmark Hill/ Camberwell and beyond).&nbsp;</li></ul>With more people friendly designs, the choice to walk, cycle and scoot should become more attractive. We hope that more people will choose to leave the car at home, especially at school run times.<br /><br />It is clear that the detail of implementation will affect the scheme's success - for instance the method of segregation and the timing of the light phasing are key to making this work well for everyone. We hope that Southwark will consider carefully all responses to the consultation and work with local stakeholders on the details to ensure that the scheme really does provide an attractive choice of active travel even for those who do not let their children walk or cycle to school at the moment. For instance we would want to ensure that the width and capacity of any cycle tracks are maximised for family-friendly inclusive cycling for all types of people on all types of bike, and that the design avoids the problem of 'left hooks' where a bike going straight on is overtaken by a car turning left.<br /><br />Please support improvements for active travel at this junction by emailing Chris.Mascord@Southwark.gov.uk, or <a href="http://www.southwark.gov.uk/info/200308/current/3639/townley_road" target="_blank">responding to the consultation online</a>.<br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=781861334889275298" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=781861334889275298" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Lucynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-781861334889275298.post-6745290865993542222014-10-15T11:35:00.000+01:002014-10-17T11:41:08.849+01:00See and be seen!Lights are on now for the school run and we all need to allow extra time to look out for everyone else on our journey to school. Unfortunately SMIDSY collisions <i>("sorry mate I didn't see you"</i>) happen at any time of year, but in the dark and wet it's worth making an extra effort to see and be seen.<br /><br /><h2></h2><h2></h2><h2>How to learn good road positioning - to see and be seen</h2>Good road positioning for our children crossing the roads or cycling to school becomes even more important when drivers' visibility is worse due to the weather, low sun, mist, fog, rain, darkness. Some drivers set off before completely clearing a frosty windscreen so have a very narrow field of vision. Others are distracted by mobile phones or toddlers. And all brakes are less efficient in the wet.<br /><ul><li>If you haven't taken advantage of the <b>free cycle training from <a href="http://www.cycleconfident.com/sponsors/southwark/" target="_blank">Cycle Confident</a> </b>we strongly recommend that the whole family signs up. The course includes where to position yourself on the road and at junctions as well as making eye contact and clearly signalling intent so that you can best see and be seen. This teaches valuable traffic skills and awareness whether or not you ride a bike regularly, and can help us all become better and more considerate drivers too.</li></ul><br /><h3>Light up your&nbsp;bike</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-21va7tGF938/VD5FwMzybkI/AAAAAAAABRY/II8fkiZeIvM/s1600/images-26.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-21va7tGF938/VD5FwMzybkI/AAAAAAAABRY/II8fkiZeIvM/s1600/images-26.jpeg" height="200" width="182" /></a></div>Make sure you and your children have bike lights and use them. It's illegal to cycle on a public road after dark without white front and red rear lights, a red rear reflector, and amber pedal reflectors. Any local bike shop will be able to help and can also check your brakes and tyres at the same time.<br /><br />Once you've got the essentials covered you can have lots of fun blinging your bike with any other sparkly stuff including extra lights, and material which reflects light from car headlamps in the dark.<br /><ul><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AE39t-DvbxQ/VD5DlIcxiII/AAAAAAAABRM/2EmyJtDfjDI/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-15%2Bat%2B10.49.33.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AE39t-DvbxQ/VD5DlIcxiII/AAAAAAAABRM/2EmyJtDfjDI/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-15%2Bat%2B10.49.33.png" height="200" width="180" /></a><li>Try reflective tape&nbsp;on jackets, gloves, bags, frames and more, or buy reflective panniers or rucksack covers.</li><li>You can fix extra lights on your spokes, hats, shoes, gloves...</li><li>Reflective ankle bands are useful as their up and down movement gives a good clue to others that you're riding a bike (performing the same function as pedal reflectors).&nbsp;</li><li>You can buy ready-made reflective gear, or add reflective stickers or tape yourself.</li></ul><h2>Be visible during the day too</h2>In daylight, colours that give contrast to your surroundings can help you stand out. In a grey urban environment this usually means a mixture of bright / light colours. <br /><h2></h2><h2>Make sure you can see - shield your eyes</h2>A peaked cap can help keep rain, sleet or snow out of your eyes, so that you can see what's going on &nbsp;in plenty of time to make manoeuvres safely. This is especially useful if you wear glasses which can get steamed up and don't have windscreen wipers! If you like to wear a helmet, you can get a helmet with a peak, or wear a cap underneath it.<br /><h3></h3><h3></h3><h3></h3><h3> On foot</h3><ul><li>We all know it makes sense to 'stop, look, listen'. Taking care crossing the road ideally also means finding a well-lit space to cross away from parked cars.&nbsp;</li><li>Be patient - remember that cars take longer to stop in the wet, and the bigger and heavier the vehicle the longer it takes to brake.&nbsp;</li><li>Depending on the age and road sense of your child, you might want to encourage them to wear a reflective jacket or bag that makes it easier to be seen in the dark.&nbsp;</li><li>Some Dulwich roads and paths are not well lit; it can make a walk home in the dark more fun if you carry a torch too.</li></ul><h3></h3><h3></h3><h3>Behind the Wheel</h3><div style="text-align: right;"></div><ul><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DvQSVvANzQA/VD4z0i8P-2I/AAAAAAAABQw/f08mCXkwDHQ/s1600/images-24.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DvQSVvANzQA/VD4z0i8P-2I/AAAAAAAABQw/f08mCXkwDHQ/s1600/images-24.jpeg" height="169" width="200" /></a><li>When you're driving in winter, give plenty of space to people on bikes or on foot who might be difficult to see and slower than usual, and might make unpredictable movements if they slip or swerve.</li><li>Take extra care at junctions, and give way to pedestrians who have started to cross.&nbsp;</li><li>Please don't park on double yellows or zig zag lines during their operating hours. It's illegal and makes it much harder for children to find a safe place to cross the road or a safe place to cycle.&nbsp;</li></ul>Lucynoreply@blogger.com